2000black: 27
Francisco Espregueira
Returning with a powerful follow-up to their seminal A Next Set A Rockers (2008), the collective 2000Black delivers their second full-length album, 27. Featuring prominent artists such as Dego (Dennis McFarlane), Kaidi Tatham, and Matt Lord, along with various other collaborators (the collective is expansive, encompassing a broader "2000black Family" of artists), this record is a heavyweight continuation of their Afrofuturist journey, rooted in London but with a global perspective. The album is a masterclass in raw, unpolished sound, expertly folding together jazz, boogie, and deep house into a unique blend designed for heavy rotation on the dancefloor. Tracks like "Searching For NTU People" and "You Can Not Kill Ideas" ride tough, hypnotic grooves, offering a sharp political edge that is both compelling and vital.
Beyond the raw energy, 27 also showcases the collective's soulful side. Lady Alma lends her voice to "You," injecting soulful uplift into the mix. Elsewhere on the record, tracks with titles like "950 Runnings" and "Constant Disappointment" demonstrate 2000Black's signature knack for pairing rugged percussion with a restless, street-level energy. 27 is a statement of continuity from one of the most influential collectives hailing from London. Dropping next friday, this one will be available on vinyl.